Symbols, Objects and actions associated with lent:
Ashes
- The mark of ashes is given to Christians to indicate the start of the penitential season of Lent (BBC, 2014).
- Ashes are etched in the sign of the cross on the foreheads of Catholics on Ash Wednesday.
- Symbolise the meaning of mourning, mortality and penance.
- The ashes are made from the blessed palms used in the Palm Sunday celebration of the previous year (Pannier, 2014).
Cross
- Visible symbol marking the beginning of Lent
- Catholic traditions pray the Stations of the Cross one night of each week in the liturgical season of Lent (BBC, 2014).
- Remains a symbol of what is to come and a sign, pointing us towards discipleship in Christ (BBC, 2014).
Fasting
- In the Catholic Church, those aged from 18-59 must fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.
- It is important to understand that the Church understand that certain people are unable to fast and therefore excuses them from these obligations.
- The period of Lent, through fasting, is a significant reminder of what it means to suffer (Raml, 2012).
- This small suffering should not be met with misery, however with happiness as we recognise the unbelievable sacrifice that Jesus Christ made for humanity (Saunders, 2002).
Prayer
- The Lenten season is a time for reflection, evaluation and repentance (Ambrose, 2013).
- It is a time to develop or strength a discipline of regular prayer.
- Through prayer we communicate with God, express our love and ask for forgiveness (Raml, 2012).
- Time given to prayer during Lent allows us to draw closer to God.
Almsgiving
- Almsgiving is known as "corporal works of mercy" - consisting in feeding the hungry, donating money or giving to the poor, sheltering the homeless and performing other acts of charity (Raml, 2012).
- It is a sign of our care for those in need and an expression of our gratitude for all that God has given to us (Aquilina, 2012).
- Helps Christians draw closer to God.
Purple
- Liturgical colour for Lent
- The colour of purple is used for two reasons:
- Linked with mourning and anticipates the pain and suffering of the crucifixion (National Catholic Education Commission, 2014).
- Linked with royalty, and celebrates Christ's resurrection and sovereignty (National Catholic Education Commission, 2014).